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Santana Ureste – November 26, 1997 to July 13, 2026 (28)

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Santana Ureste, 28, of Yorktown passed away Monday, July 13, 2026. He was born November 26, 1997 in Cuero to Filomena Ureste. Santana loved music and enjoyed making his own music.

To know him was to know genuine love, kindness, and unwavering loyalty. He was a cherished son, brother, family member, and friend whose presence brought comfort, laughter, and light to those around him. He had a heart that cared deeply for others and a spirit that left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know him.

Though his time with us was far too short, his life was filled with moments that will never be forgotten. His smile, his laughter, and the love he gave so freely will continue to live on through the lives he touched. While we grieve his absence, we find comfort in knowing that love never ends and that his memory will forever be a guiding light for our family.

Santana is survived by his mother Filomena Ureste, sisters Mariah Perez, JaiDee Perez, grandmother Lucille Riedesel and nephew Vincent Salas. He is also survived by his aunts Sarah (Gaylon) Buch, Sharon Ureste, Andrea Ureste, uncle Andrew Ureste, many cousins, family and friends.

Memorials may be given to Massey Funeral Home to defray funeral expenses.

William Charles Stehling -May 27, 1951 to July 13, 2026

William Charles Stehling, 75, of Yorktown passed away Monday, July 13, 2026. He was born May 27, 1951, in Goliad County to William A. and Rosie Volkmer Stehling. William married the love of his life, Susan Covan, on July 23, 1982, beginning a treasured union that spanned many years. He dedicated more than 50 years of his life to the oil field, where his strong work ethic and commitment earned the respect of those who knew him. Following his retirement, he fulfilled a lifelong dream of owning and working his own ranch, where he enjoyed the peace and fulfillment of ranch life.

William enjoyed spending time fishing, but above all, he cherished his family. His greatest joy in life was his grandchildren, and he treasured every moment spent with them. The love he had for his family and the memories he created with them will be forever remembered.

William is survived by his wife of 44 years Susan Stehling, children Chris (Michelle)  Stehling, Shane (Carey) Stehling, Rachel Key, Stacey Alexander, Samantha (Marshall) Jennings, grandchildren Cody, Kayla, Brandon, Caleb, Garrett, Aynslee, Jerran, Ethan, Emma, Evan, Ian, Caroline and Weston. He is also survived by his siblings Gary (Bettie) Stehling, Donald Stehling, Tommy (Eva) Stehling, Terry (Patricia) Stehling, Brenda (Terry) Maxwell and nieces, nephews and friends.

He is preceded in death by his parents, brothers David (Vicki) Stehling, Allen Stehling, sister Rose Ann Stehling and son-in-law Clayton Alexander.

William is buried at Westside Cemetery.

Pallbearers will be Evan Alexander, Ian Alexander, Bubba Stehling, Brandon Stehling, Garrett Stehling, Caleb Stehling, Jerran Arguellez and Dustin Zielonka. Honorary pallbearers are Marshall and Weston Jennings.

Memorials may be given to St. Paul Lutheran Church or donor’s choice.

Cuero’s Catfish Cowboys Gear Up for 11th Annual Catfish Fishing Tournament

By Pat Trevino | August  6, 2026

Cuero’s long‑running tradition of friendly competition and big catches returns this week as the 11th Annual Catfish Fishing Tournament, hosted by Cuero’s Catfish Cowboys, kicks off August 7–9. The event continues to draw anglers from across the region, offering a mix of community spirit, outdoor fun, and the chance to reel in some impressive South Texas catfish.

Participants will have three days to fish before the official weigh‑in at Cuero City Park on August 9 at 6 p.m. Tournament organizers encourage early sign‑ups, with entry fees set at $20 for catfish and $5 for gar. A raffle will also be held, with tickets available for $5.

Local bait and tackle support is available throughout the event, with anglers able to contact Sid or Patricia at 361‑894‑9594 for supplies. Additional tournament information can be obtained by calling Del at 361‑564‑7133 or reaching out to 361 River Devils, one of the groups helping promote the event.

The annual tournament has become a staple of Cuero’s outdoor recreation calendar, known for its welcoming atmosphere and camaraderie among participants. The Catfish Cowboys emphasize the spirit of the event with their familiar motto: “Good Friends. Tight Lines. Big Cats.”

As families, seasoned anglers, and newcomers prepare for another year of competition, organizers say the goal remains the same—bringing the community together for a fun, family‑friendly weekend on the water.

Busy Afternoon of Emergencies Keeps DeWitt County Responders on the Move

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By Pat Trevino | Aug 6, 2026

DeWitt County first responders faced a fast‑moving series of emergencies Wednesday afternoon, highlighting once again the critical role local volunteers and dispatchers play in keeping rural communities safe.

The first call came in at 12:57 p.m., when a grass fire on Dudlefski Road near Sandy Gate #2 prompted Yorktown Volunteer Fire Department to request mutual aid from Gonzales County Fire South. Crews worked quickly to contain the blaze as hot, dry conditions continued to challenge firefighters across the region.

(Courtesy photo)

Shortly afterward, Yorktown EMS was dispatched to a one‑vehicle rollover at Nordheim Slick Field Road and SH 239, responding to the second major incident of the early afternoon.

At 1:53 p.m., dispatchers received reports of a second grass fire, this one at FM 108 and Gruenau Road, pulling additional volunteer crews into action.

The pace didn’t slow. At 2:31 p.m., responders were sent to a third grass fire, located on Emil Zielonka Road. Mutual aid was requested from Meyersville Volunteer Fire Department, and Yorktown EMS responded as well, marking the fourth major call in under two hours.

Throughout the afternoon, DeWitt County Sheriff’s Office Dispatch coordinated the rapid sequence of emergencies, ensuring that fire, EMS, and mutual aid partners were routed where they were needed most.

Wednesday’s string of incidents underscores the dedication, teamwork, and resilience of DeWitt County’s volunteer firefighters, EMS personnel, law enforcement officers, and dispatchers. Their willingness to respond—often within minutes—keeps rural communities protected during high‑demand situations.

Local departments continue to encourage residents to consider volunteering.

Rural fire protection depends heavily on community members willing to step forward, train, and serve. Joining a volunteer fire department means becoming part of a tight‑knit family committed to safeguarding neighbors and property.

Cuero Online News thanks Yorktown Volunteer Fire Department, Meyersville Volunteer Fire Department, Gonzales County Fire South, Yorktown EMS, and the DeWitt County Sheriff’s Office Dispatch for their continued service to DeWitt County.

 

Cuero High School Alumni Prepare for an Unforgettable Gobbler Reunion Weekend

By Pat Trevino | Aug 4, 2026

Cuero High School’s spirit is set to shine bright this September as alumni from the Classes of 1984, 1985, 1986, 1987, and 1988 gather for a special multi‑class celebration. Organized around the Class of 1986 and their longtime friends, the reunion promises two days filled with memories, laughter, and Gobbler pride.

With the theme “Once a Gobbler, Always a Gobbler,” organizers invite classmates to reconnect, relive old stories, and celebrate the bonds that have endured for decades. The event blends casual fun with a more formal evening program, giving attendees multiple opportunities to enjoy time together.

Friday Night: Mixer & Game Watch Party

The weekend kicks off on Friday, September 18, at Maya Mexican Restaurant, where alumni will gather for a mixer beginning at 6:00 PM. Friends are encouraged to come early, stay late, and enjoy a relaxed evening of conversation and camaraderie.

After the mixer, the group will roll right into a Cuero Gobbler Game Watch Party, cheering on the hometown team just like they did in their high‑school days. The atmosphere is expected to be lively, nostalgic, and full of school spirit.

Saturday Night: The Main Event

The highlight of the reunion takes place on Saturday, September 19, at the Cuero Municipal Clubhouse. The evening begins with a Social Hour at 6:00 PM, followed by Dinner at 7:00 PM.

A special program will feature shared memories, reflections, and moments honoring the legacy of the Gobbler community. Music will be provided by DJ D‑Ray, ensuring the night ends on a high note with dancing, laughter, and plenty of photo‑worthy moments.

Tickets & Participation

Tickets are available now, and organizers encourage early registration. Alumni can purchase tickets online through the event link or by scanning the QR code provided on promotional materials.

A dedicated Facebook group—Cuero High School Class of ’86 and Friends Reunion—is also available for updates, announcements, and community conversation as the event approaches.

Event Contacts

For questions or additional information, alumni may reach out to:

  • Lynda Peña – rpena999@yahoo.com
  • Lisa Fuentes – LVFuentes128@gmail.com
  • Drosto Montgomery – 210‑240‑0562

A Weekend to Remember

With good friends, great memories, and a shared love for Cuero High School, this reunion weekend is shaping up to be a heartfelt celebration of community and tradition. Whether you graduated in ’84 or ’88—or simply walked the halls with the Class of ’86—everyone is invited to reconnect, relive, and celebrate.

Jace Garza Shines at TYRA Gonzales Rodeo, Bringing Home Four Buckles

By Pat Trevino | Aug 4, 2026

GONZALES, Tx — The Texas Youth Rodeo Association delivered another action‑packed weekend at the JB Wells Arena, where young competitors faced tough stock, long hours, and blistering summer heat. Among the standout performers was Jace Garza, who captured four championship buckles and a payout check, marking an exceptional showing at this week’s TYRA rodeo in Gonzales.

Garza, known for his consistency and determination in the arena, competed with precision across multiple events, earning top placements against a strong field of youth rodeo athletes. His performance continues to build on an already impressive season.

Jace is the son of Cathy and Jacob Garza, who have supported his rodeo journey every step of the way. Also cheering him on was his aunt, Raquel De Los Santos of Cuero, who braved the intense heat throughout the weekend to rally behind her favorite young cowboy.

Courtesy photo — Cuero resident, Raquel De Los Santos is pictured with her niece and nephews at the Gonzales, Texas TYRA event, proudly supporting her young rodeo competitor.

Adding to the family support were his grandparents, Teresa and Fred Garza, who were present in Gonzales to encourage their grandson as he added four more buckles to his growing collection. Their pride was evident as they watched him compete and succeed in one of TYRA’s most competitive venues.

The Gonzales stop remains a key event in the TYRA circuit, drawing large crowds and showcasing rising talent from across Texas. With his latest wins, Garza continues to establish himself as one of the association’s standout young competitors.

Cuero ISD Welcomes New Employees with Community Support

By Pat Trevino | Aug 4, 2026

Cuero Independent School District extended its appreciation to the Cuero Education Foundation and Executive Director Christi Fuchs for their generous hospitality during New Employee Orientation. The Foundation provided breakfast tacos and Gobbler‑themed cookies to greet the district’s newest staff members, creating a warm and welcoming start to the day.

The district also expressed gratitude to St. Mark’s Lutheran Church for donating a delicious lunch for the orientation event. Volunteers Stephanie Sanders and Sandra Tate helped serve the meal, ensuring that new employees felt valued and supported as they began their journey with Cuero ISD.

Through these thoughtful gestures, local organizations once again demonstrated the strong community spirit that defines Cuero—where partnerships between schools, churches, and civic groups continue to make a lasting impact.

Ruth Sophie Sthele Roller – March 12, 1936 to July 26, 2026 (90)

Ruth Sophie Sthele Roller, 90, of Cuero passed away July 26, 2026. She was born March 12, 1936 in Yorktown to Alfred and Sophie Bertha Brandt Sthele. She married John G. Roller in Yorktown on August 20, 1955. She worked for Textan as a saddle maker. She enjoyed sewing, embroidery and cooking. She was a member of St. Paul Lutheran Church in Yorktown.

She is survived by her daughter, Susan M. Ochs (Steven); her son, Mark A. Roller (Imelda); sister, Patricia Sthele; grandchildren, Cynthia Stanley (Dewayne), Courtney Vo (Khoa), Curtis Mueller (Kimberly) and Christy Fletcher (Tryston); great-grandchildren, Kayden Mueller, Jaxson Mueller, Evelyn Mueller, Cayson Stanley, McKenzie Moore, Braysia Edwards, Thomas Villarreal IV, Remington Duncan and Colton Duncan.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband of sixty-eight years, John G. Roller; sister, Dorothy Boldt and brothers, LeRoy Sthele, Sr. and Norman Sthele.

Pallbearers include Curtis Mueller, Kayden Mueller, Jaxson Mueller, Tryston Fletcher, Khoa Vo, Dewayne Stanley and LeRoy Sthele Jr.

Honorary Pallbearers include Cayson Stanley and Evelyn Mueller.

She is buried at St. Paul Lutheran Cemetery in Yorktown.

Memorial contribution may be made to St. Paul Lutheran Church or K9’s for Warriors.

Carlton Rudolph West – September 13, 1934 to July 16, 2026 (91)

Carlton Rudolph West, 91, went to his heavenly rest on July 16, 2026.

Carlton was born in Waco on September 13, 1934, to Elmer Lee West and Hazel Harwood West. Carlton married Shirley Louise Hildebrandt on March 7, 1954, in Cuero. To their marriage, God blessed them with four children, Patricia, Carl, Ricky, and Shirl.

Carlton worked as a Roughneck and Derrick Man, as well as, maintenance for Brentex Mills and Cuero Nursing facilities. He loved to hunt and fish, spending much time in a deer blind in the fall, and fishing on the Guadalupe River.

Carlton will be welcomed in his heavenly home by his wife; his parents; his brothers, Cecil Lee West, Elward Claude West and Rodney Dale West; his sisters, Dorothy Evelyn Cox, and Glenda Louise West and Great-Grandchildren, Kyler Scott Tiffin and Konner Ryan Tiffin.

Carlton is survived by his children, Patricia (David) Tiffin of Victoria, Carl (Elizabeth) West of Cuero, Ricky (Laura) West of Cuero, and Shirl Riddle of Cuero; Grandchildren, Thomas (LaShea) Tiffin, Kyle (Kelley) Tiffin, Chelsea Riddle, Kalyn (Hunter) Kleim, Garret West, Jason (Emily) West and Brandon West and Great-Grandchildren, Ashlynn Racine, Kaylee Racine, Kyleigh Tiffin, Makenzee Tiffin, Kaleb Tiffin, Holden Kleim, Kason Tiffin, Kinsley Kleim, Layla West, and Colton West.

He was buried at St. John’s Lutheran Church Cemetery in Lindenau.

Pallbearers were his grandchildren.

Memorial donations may be made to your preferred charity.